HDL Cholesterol
Cholesterol carried by high-density lipoproteins, often called 'good' cholesterol.
| Typical reference range (male) | above 40 mg/dL |
| Typical reference range (female) | above 50 mg/dL |
| Commonly cited optimal range | above 60 mg/dL |
Ranges vary by laboratory, method, age and sex: always use the range printed on your own report. Why labs differ.
What it measures
High-density lipoproteins are small, protein-rich particles made by the liver and intestine. They pick up excess cholesterol from tissues and artery walls and return it to the liver (reverse cholesterol transport), and they also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions.
Why it matters
Low HDL-C is an independent marker of cardiovascular and metabolic risk and is a component of metabolic syndrome. However, drugs that raise HDL-C have not reduced heart events, so HDL-C is treated as a risk signal rather than a direct target.
What a high result can mean
Higher HDL-C is usually favorable, reflecting regular exercise, moderate alcohol intake, estrogen or genetics. Very high levels (above ~100 mg/dL) are not clearly protective and, in some studies, are associated with higher risk, possibly due to dysfunctional particles or genetic variants (e.g. CETP deficiency).
What a low result can mean
Low HDL-C is commonly linked to insulin resistance, high triglycerides, abdominal obesity, smoking, physical inactivity, very high refined-carbohydrate intake and anabolic steroid or certain progestin use.
What affects the result
Fasting is not required. Aerobic exercise, weight loss, quitting smoking and reducing refined carbohydrates tend to raise HDL-C; anabolic steroids, testosterone supplementation and some beta blockers can lower it. Interpret with triglycerides (the triglyceride/HDL ratio is a rough insulin-resistance marker) and with HDL particle number when available.
Units and conversion
Usually reported in mg/dL.
- From mmol/L: multiply by 38.67 to get mg/dL
Also called on lab reports
HDL, HDL-C, HDL-Cholesterol, High Density Lipoprotein, HDL Chol, HDL Cholesterol, Direct
Related tests: Lipids & Cardiovascular Risk
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.